Norway just made it easier for foreigners to get Permanent Residency (PR)! Starting this April, the old rule that blocked people from getting PR if they ever received government financial support has been removed.
What Changed?
Before: If you received any money from social welfare, your PR application could be rejected — even if it happened once.
Now (April 2025 onward): You can still apply for PR even if you got financial support in the past. But you still need to show that you currently have a stable income when you apply.
✅ Why this change?
The UDI (Norwegian Directorate of Immigration) wants to make immigration rules simpler, faster, and easier to apply for online.
🔑 What Does This Mean for You?
- You won’t be punished for getting temporary help in your early years in Norway.
- You can now plan your future and apply for PR with more confidence.
- Having a valid work visa and a steady income is the main focus now.
Norway Work Visas That Can Lead to PR (In 2025)
Here are the main types of work visas you can apply for in Norway that may lead to PR:
| Visa Type | What It’s For | Who Can Apply |
|---|---|---|
| Skilled Worker Visa | Jobs that match your education or training | University or vocational degree + job offer |
| Job-Seeker Visa | Come to Norway for 6 months to look for a job | Skilled workers with funds to live independently |
| Seasonal Work Visa | Short-term work (farming, fishing, tourism) | Job offer needed |
| Self-Employed Skilled Worker Visa | If you run your own business in Norway | Business plan + skills |
| Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) Visa | Transfer within the same company from abroad to Norway | Must have worked 1+ year with that company |
| Startup Visa | Starting an innovative business in Norway | Approved business plan needed |
How to Qualify for PR After This Update?
To get Permanent Residency in Norway:
- Get one of the eligible work visas.
- Stay in Norway legally for 3 years.
- Keep a steady income (no need to be rich, just self-supporting).
- Follow Norwegian laws (no serious criminal records).
📌 Final Tip
If you were worried that getting help from the government could hurt your PR chances — you can now relax. As long as you’re earning now and legally staying in Norway, you’re back on track!
🔗 Official Links
